The Facts
Black people experience disproportionate negative outcomes across the criminal justice system, including 7 times more likely to be stopped and searched.
There is a significant lack of Black representation in certain organisations such as the police, particularly in senior ranks.
There is a gap in trust and confidence between the Black community and the institutions that serve them, such as the police.
The Black community need greater opportunities to scrutinise and hold institutes like the police services to account on disparities.
A word from the founder
I joined West Midlands Police in 1992 and served for 30 years. During my service, I remained one of only a handful of Black females within the force, overcoming personal barriers to become the first-ever Black female Superintendent in West Midlands Police (WMP).
Throughout my career, I was an active Diversity Champion, using my personal insight and lived experience to help drive organisational changes. I was regarded as a valued member of WMP on the issue of race, providing both support and appropriate challenge where needed.
I became a visible role model within the police and the community. As the former chair of the WMP Black and Asian Police Association (BAPA) and a National BPA cabinet member, I celebrated and advocated for Black talent and culture by developing internal initiatives and working with the community.
I developed a reputation as a problem solver who influenced the development of a more inclusive culture and shaped responses to critical incidents affecting the Black community, resulting in better policing. I bring tactical and strategic insights to challenges, delivering solutions that achieve impactful results.
In 2022, I was awarded the Queens Police Medal (QPM) for distinguished service—the first Black female officer in West Midlands Police to receive this honour. The award recognised my dedication to public service. In 2019, I also won the Inspirational Leaders Award at the National Ethnicity Awards.
I have experience chairing cross-agency boards, leading critical incident projects, and managing resources. I am praised for my integrity, ability to inspire confidence with partners and stakeholders, and my skill in guiding teams towards a shared vision and successful outcomes.
I am also experienced in coaching and mentoring staff for personal and professional development, helping build resilience for success. I designed the HEAL programme—focusing on History, Empower, Action, and Legacy—which has been instrumental in increasing leadership representation for minority groups.
As a Black woman, I am proud to have dedicated my time to my community, working within the police service. After leaving policing, my commitment to influencing positive change continues. I founded The Thin Black Line to work with organisations, aiming to reduce disparities affecting the Black community and build stronger, more inclusive organisations.
'If not you, then who?'
